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Power Equipment & Landscaping Tips, Tricks & Advice

30 Aug 2025
Best Fall Lawn Fertilizers For Cool Season Grasses
By River East Power Equipment Lawn Care

The Best Fall Lawn Fertilizers & Food For Cool Season Grasses: Our Picks

For Kentucky bluegrass, perennial ryegrass, and fescues, fall is the most important feeding window of the year. The right fall lawn fertilizer rebuilds roots after summer stress, thickens turf before winter, and sets up fast green-up next spring. Below are our curated picks for fall fertilizer for grass—with notes on what each product does best and when to use it for cool-season lawns in Connecticut and across the Northeast.

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31 Jul 2025
Spreading Lawn Lime
By River East Power Equipment Lawn Mowers

How to Tell If Your Lawn Needs Lime: Lawn Lime Signs

If your grass isn’t looking as healthy and vibrant as it should, the issue might not be your watering or mowing habits—it could be your soil’s pH. Many homeowners ask, “Does my lawn need lime?” because lime can make a big difference in lawn health. Knowing the signs your lawn needs lime can help you correct the problem early and restore lush, green grass.

In this guide, we’ll cover exactly how to tell if your lawn needs lime and the telltale symptoms you should watch for.

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24 Jun 2025
Why is my Lawn Mower Smoking
By River East Power Equipment Lawn Mowers

Why Is My Lawn Mower Smoking (And What To Do About It)

You fire up your lawn mower, ready to tackle the yard—and suddenly, smoke starts billowing from the engine. Whether it’s white, blue, or black, it’s never a good sign. If you’re asking, “Why is my lawn mower smoking?”, you’re not alone—and this guide will walk you through the common causes and what you can do to fix the issue before it leads to serious damage.

At River East Power Equipment, we’ve seen it all—from a bit of harmless smoke to full-on engine trouble. Here’s how to figure out what’s going on with your mower (and when it’s time to bring it in for service).

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25 Jan 2025
how to start a stihl weed eater
By River East Power Equipment Weed Eaters

How to Start a STIHL Weed Eater: Step-by-Step for Smooth Operation

Tackling an overgrown yard can feel like a daunting task, but a reliable STIHL weed eater can make quick work of unruly grass and stubborn weeds. Whether you’re trimming around flower beds or clearing tall brush, knowing how to start your weed eater is the first step to a well-maintained lawn. While these tools are built for efficiency, starting them can sometimes be a bit tricky if you’re unfamiliar with the process.

Getting your STIHL weed eater up and running involves more than just pulling the starter rope. From checking the gas tank to setting the choke properly, a few key steps ensure a smooth start every time. If you’re struggling to get it going or want to avoid common mistakes, understanding the basics of operation can save you time and frustration. With the right preparation, you’ll be ready to tackle your yard work with ease.

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09 Jan 2025
Best Snow Blowers
By River East Power Equipment Snow Blowers

BEST Snow Blower? Why Ariens Is The #1 Snow Blower Brand

When it comes to tackling winter’s toughest challenges, you need a snow blower that combines power, durability, and ease of use. Ariens has earned its reputation as a top choice for both professionals and homeowners, offering machines that deliver exceptional performance in all types of snow conditions. From light dustings to heavy snowfalls, Ariens snow blowers are built to handle it all with unmatched reliability.

What sets Ariens apart is their attention to detail and commitment to quality. Their snow blowers are designed with features like reinforced steel construction for durability, user-friendly controls, and powerful engines that make clearing snow a breeze. Whether you’re navigating tight spaces or clearing large driveways, Ariens offers a range of models tailored to meet your specific needs. With a focus on performance and longevity, it’s no wonder Ariens continues to lead the way in snow removal equipment.

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14 Nov 2024
Winter Mower Storage
By River East Power Equipment Lawn Care

Winter Lawn Mower Storage: How To Store Your Mower For The Winter

As the leaves turn and the air grows crisp, it’s time to prepare your trusty lawn mower for its winter hibernation. Ensuring your mower is properly stored during the colder months not only prolongs its life but also guarantees a smooth start when spring arrives. By taking a few precautionary steps now, you can avoid costly repairs and keep your mower in top condition.

Winterizing your lawn mower involves more than just parking it in the garage. Following these steps will help protect your equipment from the harsh winter elements and pesky critters that might find it an inviting nesting spot. Prepare your mower now and enjoy a hassle-free start to the mowing season next year!

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22 Sep 2024
How To Keep Birds From Eating Grass Seed
By River East Power Equipment Lawn Care

How To Keep Birds From Eating Grass Seed? 🐦 (11 Ways)

Planting grass seed can be an exciting project, whether you’re starting a new lawn or just patching up a few bare spots. However, birds can quickly become an unexpected obstacle, swooping in to devour the seeds before they have a chance to germinate. Pigeons, sparrows, and finches are common culprits, with quails particularly fond of grass seeds, especially in regions like Dorset and East Anglia.

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27 Aug 2024
Northeast Lawn Fertilizers for the Fall
By River East Power Equipment Lawn Care

The Best Northeast Lawn Fertilizers for the Fall: Top Picks for a Healthy Lawn

As the crisp autumn air begins to settle in, your lawn’s needs change dramatically. Fall is the perfect time to give your grass a nutrient boost, setting the stage for a lush, green yard come spring. But with so many options on the market, how do you choose the best fertilizer for your Northeast lawn?

Understanding the unique climate and soil conditions of the Northeast is crucial. The right fertilizer can help your lawn recover from summer stress and prepare for winter dormancy. In this article, we’ll guide you through the top fertilizers specifically designed for fall use in the Northeast, ensuring your lawn stays healthy and vibrant year-round.

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12 Jul 2024
What Temperature Is Too Hot To Mow The Lawn
By River East Power Equipment Lawn Care

What Temperature Is Too Hot To Mow The Lawn? Hot Weather Mowing

Mowing the lawn might seem like a straightforward task, but when the hot summer sun rises, it can quickly become a challenge. Knowing the right temperature to safely and effectively mow your lawn is crucial for both your health and the well-being of your grass. Extreme heat can pose risks that go beyond simple discomfort.

When temperatures soar, the grass can suffer from stress, and mowing it can cause more harm than good. Plus, working in high heat can put you at risk for heat exhaustion or even heat stroke. So, what’s the tipping point? Understanding when it’s too hot to mow can save you time, effort, and ensure your lawn stays lush and green.READ MORE

24 May 2024
Best residential zero turn lawn mowers.
By River East Power Equipment Lawn Care

What Is The Best Residential Zero Turn Mower? Gravely. Here’s Why!

Looking for the ultimate grass-cutting champion for your lawn? A top-rated residential zero-turn mower might just be your best bet. These mowers are designed for efficiency and precision, allowing you to glide through your mowing chores with ease. Imagine trimming your lawn with the agility of a professional, turning on a dime and cutting close to edges without breaking a sweat.
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